Community Calendar

DivorceCare, a special help seminar and support group for people experiencing divorce and separation, will be held on Monday evenings at the East Hill church of Christ beginning on January 7th from 6:30-8. through April[...]

Nebraska man accused of animal cruelty takes plea deal

Overton, Neb. — A February sentencing has been scheduled for one of three family members charged with animal cruelty following the deaths of dozens of cattle on their Nebraska farm.

Dawson County District Court records say 60-year-old Eugene Wempen Sr., of Overton, pleaded no contest to a lone count of animal abandonment or cruelty resulting in death. Prosecutors dropped seven other counts in return. His sentencing is set for Feb. 11.

His 60-year-old wife, Diane Wempen, and their 34-year-old son, Eugene Wempen Jr., have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial set to begin March 12 in Lexington.

Deputies reported finding at least 65 carcasses on the Wempen property near Overton in central Nebraska. About 75 live cattle, along with llamas, donkeys, miniature ponies, horses, goats and sheep, were relocated.